A Journey from Slavery to Freedom

Dr. Scot A. French, Associate Professor of History, University of Central Florida, will present a talk on "The View from Union Ridge: A Mid-Life Perspective on Burkley Bullock's Journey from Slavery to Freedom in Charlottesville and Albemarle County"

This talk will explore the life and times of the formerly enslaved Burkley Bullock (1830-1908), who was recognized as a founder of the Ivy Creek Baptist Church (now Union Ridge Baptist Church) and a pioneer business man in the city of Charlottesville. In December 1871, Bullock purchased a 35-acre Albemarle County lot from John Shackleford, a 74-year-old white farmer, for $435. By 1880, Bullock owned 75 acres in the vicinity of Hydraulic and Earlysville roads. This talk will explore his mid-life efforts to raise a family, build community, and define the meaning of freedom for himself and his children in post-Reconstruction Virginia.

Cosponsored by The Preservers of the Daughters of Zion Cemetery. Please note that seating is limited.